Taking Dental X-Rays: Why They Are Necessary

Visiting the dentist regularly helps prevent tooth decay and other problems that might arise with your teeth and gums. A dentist commonly takes X-rays every other visit to check on your progress, but it depends on your current state of dental health and medical history. It’s an essential part of the decision-making process as to whether or not you need fillings or extractions.

Here are more details on the importance of dental X-rays:

Why X-Rays are Necessary

The last thing you want in your mouth is some form of disease to degrade your teeth and gums. Most of these diseases can be prevented if detected at an early stage. A dentist can look at your mouth and get an idea of how healthy your teeth and tissues are holding them in place, but X-rays provide a more thorough visual presentation to analyze whether or not cavities and other oral issues are developing in your mouth.

X-rays will help the dentist also see if any bone loss is occurring or other evidence of decay that is not readily noticeable from an oral exam. Furthermore, an X-ray may reveal problems such as tumors, root infections or gum disease. Ultimately, getting your teeth checked often, both orally and with X-rays, will save you money and possibly help avoid oral surgery for root canals or tooth extractions.

Frequency of X-Rays

The frequency for getting X-rays varies among individuals, based on age and health conditions. While some patients need to have them done every six months, others with no apparent issues might get them once every 12-18 months. For new patients, the dentist will likely need to take X-rays to establish the initial health of your teeth and gums for his or her records. X-rays are often taken every 12-18 months for teens to check for wisdom teeth development.